AROMATHERAPY IN REDUCING STRESS SYMPTOMS IN THE NURSING TEAM: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the diverse scientific evidence regarding the use of aromatherapy in reducing stress-related symptoms in the Nursing team. Method: an integrative literature review carried out on July 1st, 2022, based on the “Aromatherapy”, “Stress” and “Nursing” descriptors and using the Rayyan platform to select the studies, all in charge of two independent researchers. Full-text and free digital access documents in Portuguese, English or Spanish were included, which analyzed aromatherapy and the population of interest separately. Results: twelve studies were included, with predominance of randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies. Inhalation aromatherapy with Lavandula angustifolia essential oil stood out. The use of a Control Group and multiple outcome measures were the criteria that presented the greatest weakness among the studies analyzed. Final considerations: Aromatherapy showed effectiveness and safety in reducing stress symptoms for the Nursing team.